In November 2016, ENVIA Energy completed the construction of the first-ever microchannel gas-to-liquid plant in the United States. While both large- and small-scale biomass plants capture methane produced from biomass dump sites around the world — biomass plant technology is decades old — microchannel plants are a new and unique technology.
The need for sustainable energy is reaching critical proportions. Current fuel sources release harmful greenhouse gases, and they will eventually run out. Alternative energy sources (such as wind or solar) have come a long way, but they are unlikely to meet energy demands in the foreseeable future. Even when homes get to a zero-emission point, it is important to note the sheer amount of energy consumed for industrial use. Large manufacturing plants can gulp as much energy as entire cities or even some countries.
Steam methane reforming (SMR) is the most common process for producing hydrogen-rich synthesis gas (syngas) from light hydrocarbons like natural gas, biogas and refinery feedstock.
Concerns about greenhouse gases and the negative environmental impact of modern fuel sources have led to technological advances. Cleaner energy is a must manufacturing grows. Natural gas plants produce much of the energy needed, but it must meet regulatory standards for purity. Carbon capture technology is one of the ways natural gas plants can minimize the environmental impact of this energy source.
For many businesses, data offers insight into what is working and what needs improvement. Careful analysis can unlock problems in your plant that could be affecting cash flow and productivity. You probably already track hundreds, if not thousands of data points, but gaining actionable insights from that information is the challenge. The best data in the world won't help if it is never used to drive change. Here are some simple data processing steps that can help benchmark your current operations and improve them through the remainder of the year and into the next.
The increasing importance of Carbon Capture & Storage protocols (CCS) in the natural-gas processing industry has recently focused attention onto the economics of acid gas decontamination methods, and the energy efficiency associated with such practices.
Natural gas processing is one of the most technologically rich fields in the world. This article discusses these technologies in detail and also addresses their implementation.
Challenges faced by the energy industry should also be viewed as opportunities, including the need to reduce emissions. Instead of technology stifling growth, innovation allows natural gas to play a significant role as more consumers adopt fuel cells as a local source of power. Natural gas processors can leverage this trend by supplying the raw materials that cells require to create clean energy. Image Courtesy of Power Engineering International.
Drones currently accomplish a wide variety of tasks for natural gas companies, from site surveying to geologic mapping. Typically, drone flights are quicker, less costly and safer than foot or helicopter inspections. They can also perform well in icy conditions and some inclement weather, like low clouds and fog. Most importantly, drones make it easier to detect actual and potential leaks and other dangers. Companies can then prioritize and engage in repairs, resulting in a safer, cleaner environment for everyone. Here is a more in depth look at how drones can assist with three of the most expensive tasks in the industry.
The Railroad Commission of Texas is responsible for the regulation of production, transportation and exploration of oil and natural gas throughout the state. According to the , there are in-force regulations that industry professionals must adhere to for compliance.